1-First Step: Prepare the Batter In a large mixing bowl, stir together the Bisquick mix, milk, and eggs until well combined. If preparing batter from scratch, whisk the plain flour, bicarbonate of soda, and baking powder together in the bowl. Create a well and gradually add eggs, milk, and vanilla extract while beating until smooth. The batter should have a thick but pourable consistency.

2-Second Step: Heat and Grease the Cooking Surface Preheat your griddle or medium non-stick pan over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or cooking spray to prevent pancakes from sticking and to aid even browning.

3-Third Step: Form Animal Shapes For lion pancakes: ladle batter to form six large circles and six smaller circles. For caterpillar pancakes: pour small circles spaced apart. For dog pancakes: create six large oblong shapes, six small rounds, and twelve ovals. Use a spoon or squeeze bottle to control shapes precisely. Cook pancakes on one side for about 3–5 minutes until bubbles appear and edges firm up.

4-Fourth Step: Flip and Finish Cooking Carefully flip each pancake or shape using a spatula and cook the other side for 2–5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Adjust heat to prevent burning and promote even cooking.

5-Fifth Step: Assemble and Decorate

• Lion pancakes: Stack large and small circles, then decorate with sliced strawberries for the mane and nose, blueberries for eyes, and chocolate chips for the mouth.
• Caterpillar pancakes: Arrange small circles in a row, and add raisins for eyes, orange rind for antennae, and chocolate chips for feet.
• Dog pancakes: Assemble large oblong as the head, small rounds as the snout, and ovals as ears. Use sliced strawberries for nose and tongue, blueberries for eyes, and chocolate chips for mouth.

6-Final Step: Serve Serve your fun animal pancakes warm with desired toppings such as syrup, fresh fruit, or yogurt. These pancakes are perfect for a playful breakfast or brunch that the family will love.